If you're thinking about college already, don't worry, so are we. St. Francis High School looks at a student's high school career as a whole, the way colleges do, and Freshman Placement Tests are the beginning of the St. Francis path. Scheduled for April 22, eligible incoming freshmen will test at 8:30 a.m. for Math placement into Honors Advanced Algebra with Trigonometry, Honors Geometry, or Geometry. World Language testing for French and Spanish placement begins at 10:00 a.m. (English placement was shared at Freshman Registration.)

If you would like to discuss "my favorite page," I invite you to meet me for coffee, a school tour, and an admissions meeting. Tuesday Tours are 9:00-10:00 a.m. or any convenient day/time. We welcome parents of incoming freshmen, transfer students, and middle school students. I also can arrange a full or partial Shadow Day for your 7th or 8th grader. Call me to discuss the details of your child's path at (630) 668-5800 x1120.

This year, AJ Panganiban '17, became the 17th SFHS student selected for the Daily Herald DuPage County Leadership Team, giving St. Francis the most awardees of any diocesan Catholic high school since the contest began in 2002. Gabi Napoli '17, earned Honorable Mention. The Daily Herald Leadership Team recognizes high schoolers who demonstrate leadership through community service. Applications are open to all public and private high schools in the Daily Herald coverage area. Schools are limited to two applications, and independent judges rate applicants according to leadership and volunteerism.

AJ: It's not something you have to do but more of a duty. We were put here to help and serve others; you help out and then others will help out because you are.

Gabi: Service means going out and helping those around you as well as those who you may not be able to reach. It can be something big or something small, but most importantly, it makes someone smile.

What service activities have been particularly meaningful during your time at SFHS?

AJ: When we cook food and transport it to the homeless. Feed Your Starving Children has been particularly meaningful to me, too. If you can't make the commitment of driving food to people, you can always go to box food. It's fun with St. Francis because you go with friends and teachers and it is a great experience.

Gabi: My Junior year, we made no-sew blankets for the children in the Pediatric Ward of Edwards Hospital in Naperville. With the help of S.A.D.D., we were able to make 26 blankets. This service project was most meaningful to me because I was able to see it from start to finish.

Gabi: The sense of community and love and support that everyone offers you. We are a family here at St. Francis. We all want to be a part of this school and we all want to see our friends succeed. This is the thing I will miss the most once I graduate.

How does SFHS prepare you for the next level?

AJ: The time management helps a lot for now and in the future for college. I'm motivated here; I'm challenged every day, and that will help me in college.

Gabi: St. Francis wants to build you up as a whole person. They want you to succeed academically, socially, and spiritually. Every class pushes you to do the best you can, and they force you to think outside the box. Along with teaching you the material, teachers guide you in managing your time and learning how to use your resources.

Only at St. Francis High School

International Student Program

St. Francis High School welcomes students from all over the world. Our young people study historical and current events alongside students from China, Italy, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Spain, and Vietnam. This rich cultural exposure elevates their thinking and global understanding.

Some of our international students spend a few months at SFHS for an "American high school experience" and to enhance their English language skills. Other international students attend for a true four-year St. Francis experience and ultimately earn a St. Francis High School diploma. Many live with SFHS families, who acquaint themselves with a new culture and new friends. Host families of 10-month students may qualify for a stipend.

International Insights with Host Family Son, Jon Aquino '19:

"Honestly, it feels like another family member. The students are close to my age and it is fun to hang out with each other."

"When we go out to eat or spend time together, that's where most of the fun is."

"Kyrie is an upperclassman so he helps me with homework. He will help me with things I'm going through too."

"I have learned a lot about China and when I go there I will be very familiar, such as the language"

International Insights with Host Family Mom, Chris Konchel:

"Hosting an International student is a good experience!"

"I was interested in the opportunity for me and my family to learn about another culture by welcoming a student."

"The students we hosted were the same age as my daughters. The girls would talk and help each other with homework."

"Advice? Families need to be flexible and open to a new experience. You need to treat the student like your own children. The entire family needs to be open to it."

International Insights with International Student from China, Sarah Jin '17:

"I like how International Students always have time together and have a special bond with each other. We feel the homey environment. I like the diversity, we have people from all over the world and learn about their cultures."

"It is a big difference living in a host family home. There are changes, adjustments. We get together and have conversations with each other so there isn't big conflict. It's a great experience to have."

"I've recommend this program to others."

"I enjoy the people here at St. Francis. They really are welcoming, open to hearing what you think. The teachers are great and helpful. I don't feel like I am on the outskirts; I feel included in the classrooms. I like how we have the choices of different classes to do what we are interested in."

98% student participation in at least one activity
24 sports programs: 12 boy and 12 girl
9th Place Division 2A State Math Team
63% of students participate in the performing arts
65% of students participate in athletic programs

PASTORAL MINISTRY

Provides opportunity for prayer and worship, retreats, justice and service, ministry leadership formation, pastoral care, and community building

St. Francis High School will offer a transportation option to students beginning in the 2017-2018 school year. The school will provide two-way bus service in the northern, western and southern suburbs, with students arriving to St. Francis High School by 7:25 a.m. and departing school after the Activity Period at 3:15 p.m.

For more information, fees, route schedules or questions, please contact Bob Gorski at (630) 668-5800 x1138 or at